Review of Africa Opened My Heart
Posted: 15 Dec 2024, 04:26
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Africa Opened My Heart" by Julie Dreyer Wang.]
Julie Dreyer Wang's journey is one of profound transformation and heartfelt exploration. As a mother of three children and three grandchildren, she weathered the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Byington, to a kidney disease. His slow death over five years was a life-changing experience. A year later, in her sixties, free from immediate responsibilities and in a stable place both physically and financially, Julie felt a stirring that urged her to dive deeper into the mysteries of life. With a spirit of adventure, she embraced the primitive life by offering to volunteer at an NGO dedicated to helping AIDS orphans in Uganda. Later, the Peace Corps led her to the vast landscapes of Benin, a tiny country known as Dahomey till 1975. Her desire to keep learning and apply her knowledge to help others blossomed. The quote, It is in giving that we receive, by St. Francis of Assisi, encapsulates the core of this memoir.
Amidst the backdrop of all the happenings in Africa, unexpected love entwined itself into her story. Even as she cherished her time with loved ones and the comforts of modern life back home, she yearned to return to Africa. The challenges of the people and the place revived her and sparked the need to contribute and learn. If you are now curious about Africa and what absorbed her and filled her heart and soul, I urge you to pick up a copy of Africa Opened My Heart by Julie Dreyer Wang.
At the Bandjama Learning Centre, she observed the nature of the work and witnessed the resilience of children who had lost at least one parent. Through her outings at the market alongside Jasmine and Rebecca, she felt the community's pulse and learned. Living with Grace's family deepened her understanding of the culture and its challenges. Contrary to prior notions, the author discovered that the locals in Africa, especially those living in poverty, were friendly, welcoming, and the most generous souls ever encountered. I appreciate that the author has split this memoir into several short chapters. She weaves in vivid descriptions of the landscapes, the local culture, and the everyday lives of the people she meets. The incredible detailing offers readers a fulfilling perspective on every aspect discussed therein, including food, living conditions, transportation, and other challenges with the minutest details. These portions enrich readers with information about Africa.
Despite growing up among elders who promoted an attitude that considered whites as the superior ones, Julie was eager to explore her innermost feelings and gradually grow beyond the casually accepted racism. Upon her arrival in Africa, she approached every new experience with an open heart and adapted quickly. She was honest about the cause and identified the gap between the help needed and provided in Africa. It charmed her that poverty was not an impediment to joy upon seeing the smiling little faces. I found myself feeling happy for the author. I concur with the author's reflections on modernization. Her actions reflect her beliefs in the importance of environmentalism. Observations on money management, respect for elders, religion, and the mystery around voodoo add depth. Her friendships and close interactions helped her appreciate a relaxed and less-competitive approach to life.
The best part about the book is how the author effortlessly walks readers through all the ups and downs of the outward happenings, her introspections, and personal growth. At an age when many might choose to retreat, her willingness to embrace challenges and confidence to take on uncertainties serves as an inspiring example. The way she navigates all aspects of her life with intelligence, honesty, and unwavering dignity is noteworthy and makes this a truly insightful read.
A few errors and inconsistencies force me to deduct one star. A quick round of re-editing will help. Nothing else about this memoir presentation bothers me; the essence of Julie's story and African people remains compelling. Actual photographs could add immense value to this work. Considering all the mentioned aspects, I rate it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. With a racially charged comment, though instantly regretted, and the presence of mature content, this book is best suited for an adult audience. Lovers of memoirs and those curious about the heart of Africa shouldn't miss this one.
******
Africa Opened My Heart
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Julie Dreyer Wang's journey is one of profound transformation and heartfelt exploration. As a mother of three children and three grandchildren, she weathered the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Byington, to a kidney disease. His slow death over five years was a life-changing experience. A year later, in her sixties, free from immediate responsibilities and in a stable place both physically and financially, Julie felt a stirring that urged her to dive deeper into the mysteries of life. With a spirit of adventure, she embraced the primitive life by offering to volunteer at an NGO dedicated to helping AIDS orphans in Uganda. Later, the Peace Corps led her to the vast landscapes of Benin, a tiny country known as Dahomey till 1975. Her desire to keep learning and apply her knowledge to help others blossomed. The quote, It is in giving that we receive, by St. Francis of Assisi, encapsulates the core of this memoir.
Amidst the backdrop of all the happenings in Africa, unexpected love entwined itself into her story. Even as she cherished her time with loved ones and the comforts of modern life back home, she yearned to return to Africa. The challenges of the people and the place revived her and sparked the need to contribute and learn. If you are now curious about Africa and what absorbed her and filled her heart and soul, I urge you to pick up a copy of Africa Opened My Heart by Julie Dreyer Wang.
At the Bandjama Learning Centre, she observed the nature of the work and witnessed the resilience of children who had lost at least one parent. Through her outings at the market alongside Jasmine and Rebecca, she felt the community's pulse and learned. Living with Grace's family deepened her understanding of the culture and its challenges. Contrary to prior notions, the author discovered that the locals in Africa, especially those living in poverty, were friendly, welcoming, and the most generous souls ever encountered. I appreciate that the author has split this memoir into several short chapters. She weaves in vivid descriptions of the landscapes, the local culture, and the everyday lives of the people she meets. The incredible detailing offers readers a fulfilling perspective on every aspect discussed therein, including food, living conditions, transportation, and other challenges with the minutest details. These portions enrich readers with information about Africa.
Despite growing up among elders who promoted an attitude that considered whites as the superior ones, Julie was eager to explore her innermost feelings and gradually grow beyond the casually accepted racism. Upon her arrival in Africa, she approached every new experience with an open heart and adapted quickly. She was honest about the cause and identified the gap between the help needed and provided in Africa. It charmed her that poverty was not an impediment to joy upon seeing the smiling little faces. I found myself feeling happy for the author. I concur with the author's reflections on modernization. Her actions reflect her beliefs in the importance of environmentalism. Observations on money management, respect for elders, religion, and the mystery around voodoo add depth. Her friendships and close interactions helped her appreciate a relaxed and less-competitive approach to life.
The best part about the book is how the author effortlessly walks readers through all the ups and downs of the outward happenings, her introspections, and personal growth. At an age when many might choose to retreat, her willingness to embrace challenges and confidence to take on uncertainties serves as an inspiring example. The way she navigates all aspects of her life with intelligence, honesty, and unwavering dignity is noteworthy and makes this a truly insightful read.
A few errors and inconsistencies force me to deduct one star. A quick round of re-editing will help. Nothing else about this memoir presentation bothers me; the essence of Julie's story and African people remains compelling. Actual photographs could add immense value to this work. Considering all the mentioned aspects, I rate it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. With a racially charged comment, though instantly regretted, and the presence of mature content, this book is best suited for an adult audience. Lovers of memoirs and those curious about the heart of Africa shouldn't miss this one.
******
Africa Opened My Heart
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon